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Sunday, December 11, 2011

Joseph Blandisi

Joseph Blandisi - Owen Sound Attack

5'11" - 185 LBS
D.O.B. July 18, 1994

After not being selected in the 2010 OHL Priority Draft, the offensively talented Blandisi returned to play Major Midget AAA in 2010-2011 for the Vaughn Kings where he scored 51 goals and 41 assists in just 41 games. That led the Attack to select him with their 2nd pick of the 3 rd round, 61st overall, in the 2011 OHL Priority Draft.

The rookie is playing in the shadows of Owen Sounds other draft eligible players, Jarrod Maidens, Artur Gavrus and Gemel Smith, but he has had moments where he has seen spot duty on the top line.

Through 33 games this season, Blandisi has 10 goals and 10 assists for 20 points which places him tied for third in rookie scoring. But playing in the shadows of the "other three" may be a blessing in disguise for Blandisi. While NHL scouts may be following Maidens a lot more closely, Blandisi's own game may open some eyes.

He's an offensively gifted player who competes hard at both ends of the ice. He plays bigger than his size, has a strong work ethic, is a good skater and can score in multiple ways.

An OHL rookie, Blandisi earned his spot on the Attack roster this season by showcasing a work ethic on the ice similar to that of some other great Attack forwards in recent years (Gemel Smith, Mike Halmo, Andrew Shaw, etc). He's not the biggest guy, but he's always in on the play and works hard at both ends of the ice. Despite not getting a ton of offensive responsibility this season, he's currently 8th in scoring for the Attack. Instead of centering the third line, he's actually seen some time on the wing with Dan Catenacci and Jarrod Maidens of late, and he's got 2 goals and 2 assists in his last three games. He's definitely got some offensive ability and the hands to score in close. If he continues to get a chance on a top line, he could end up with a nice little season.